Nazarene journal

What Kind of Baptism Does the Church of the Nazarene Practice? This is a question that comes up more often than you’d think. Whether you’re new to the Church of the Nazarene or simply curious, you may find yourself asking: “Do Nazarenes baptize by sprinkling or immersion?” The answer is both—and even more. What the Nazarene Manual Says (Paragraph 12) According to Article 12 of the 16 Articles of Faith in the Church of the Nazarene Manual, baptism is a sacrament—a holy sign of: Receiving the benefits of Christ’s atonement Being joined to the Body of Christ Proclaiming faith in Jesus as Savior “Baptism may be administered by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion.” — Church of the Nazarene Manual, Paragraph 12 That’s right—sprinkling, pouring, and immersion are all acceptable methods. The emphasis isn’t on the amount of water, but on the spiritual meaning behind the act. Biblical Support for Baptism (Manual references) Here are the scriptures backing up our belief and practice: Matthew 3:1–7 – John the Baptist baptizing in the Jordan Matthew 28:19–20 – The Great Commission: “Go… baptizing them…” Acts 2:37–41 – Peter baptizing new believers after Pentecost Acts 8:35–39 – Philip baptizes the Ethiopian eunuch Romans 6:3–4 – Baptism represents dying and rising with Christ Colossians 2:12 – “Having been buried with Him in baptism…” 1 Peter 3:21 – “Baptism now saves you…” All these scriptures show that baptism is about identification with Christ, not just a religious ritual. Who Can Be Baptized? The Manual also allows for: Believers – as a declaration of their full purpose to follow Jesus Children and the morally innocent – upon request by parents or guardians The church must ensure ongoing Christian training for them. So whether it’s a child presented in faith, or an adult coming to Christ, the church is ready to baptize in a way that fits the moment—sprinkling, pouring, or immersion. Why It Matters Some churches insist on immersion only. Others only sprinkle. The Church of the Nazarene believes the meaning of baptism is more important than the method. What matters most is that the person is placing their faith in Jesus Christ, and entering a life of obedience, holiness, and righteousness. In Summary: The Church of the Nazarene accepts sprinkling, pouring, and immersion as valid forms of baptism. We baptize both believers and children (when requested by guardians). Our practice is rooted in Scripture and guided by Paragraph 12 of the Nazarene Manual. The act of baptism symbolizes union with Christ, not just a church tradition. Have you been baptized—or are you thinking about it? Let us know your story in the comments. And follow us for more insights rooted in faith, truth, and Scripture.

What the Church of the Nazarene Actually Teaches I came across a hot debate on infant baptism and child dedication on one of our Facebook posts. Some were confidently saying, “The Church of the Nazarene doesn’t baptize babies; we only do child dedications!” while others strongly disagreed, saying the opposite. We thought this piece of information would be helpful for someone looking into this subject. And instead of going by opinion or tradition, the most authoritative answer is found in the Church of the Nazarene Manual itself. Let’s break it down: Here’s What the Manual Says About Baptism “We believe that Christian baptism, commanded by our Lord, is a sacrament signifying acceptance of the benefits of the atonement and incorporation into the Body of Christ…”“As participants in the new covenant, young children and the morally innocent may be baptized upon request of parents or guardians. The church shall give assurance of Christian training.”(Church of the Nazarene Manual, Article of Faith 12) paragraph 12 So, Does the Church of the Nazarene Baptize Infants?Yes. But with guidance. Here’s how: Infant baptism is allowed, especially for “young children and the morally innocent.” It must be requested by parents or guardians. The church commits to supporting Christian training after baptism. Baptism can be done by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion. It is seen as a means of grace, not just a ritual. It’s not forced—families can choose infant dedication instead. So, What’s the Difference Between Infant Baptism and Child Dedication? In Summary: The Church of the Nazarene practices both: infant baptism and child dedication. It all depends on the family’s choice, guided by faith and understanding. Both options are respected, meaningful, and fully supported by the church. Scripture reference(Matthew 3:1-7; 28:16-20; Acts 2:37-41; 8:35-39; 10:44-48; 16:29-34; 19:1-6; Romans 6:3-4; Galatians 3:26-28; Colossians 2:12; 1 Peter 3:18-22) Still unsure what to choose for your child? Talk to your local pastor—they’ll guide you through what’s best for your family’s faith journey.Let’s stop the confusion and stick to what the manual says. Share this with someone who might need clarity too!

The Board of General Superintendents (BGS) The Board of General Superintendents (BGS) serves as one of the most important leadership bodies within the Church of the Nazarene, ensuring that the church stays united and focused on its mission. Their duties span across various vital areas of the church’s governance. Below are their responsibilities, grouped for clarity: 1. Missionary Leadership The BGS approves or rejects nominations for missionaries before they are sent out, ensuring alignment with the church’s mission. (Church Manual, Paragraph 317.3) They collaborate with the Global Missions director to recommend changes in assignments for geographical areas. (Paragraph 317.2) The board plans, preserves, and promotes the World Evangelism Fund, which supports global mission interests worldwide. (Paragraph 317.10) 2. Church Governance and Oversight The BGS ensures consistency in the interpretation of church laws and doctrine, providing guidance to pastors, districts, and ministries globally. (Paragraph 317.1) They oversee updates to the Church Manual after every General Assembly, releasing it in multiple languages. (Paragraph 323) They hold authority to interpret and make decisions about ecclesiastical policies and plans. (Paragraph 318) 3. Approving District and Local Initiatives Districts planning major changes, such as building new centers, must first seek written approval from the BGS. (Paragraph 319) They also have discretionary power in matters like ordaining divorced persons. (Paragraph 320) 4. Handling Vacancies If a vacancy occurs in the BGS between General Assembly sessions, the board decides whether to call for an election to fill the position. (Paragraph 316) They also fill vacancies in special commissions or committees during the interim of General Assemblies. (Paragraph 317.7) 5. Choosing Key Leaders The BGS serves as part of the Nominating Committee, bringing names to the General Board for the election of a general secretary and general treasurer. (Paragraph 317.4) They declare vacant the office of general secretary, general treasurer, or department director when necessary. (Paragraph 317.5) 6. Supporting Education The BGS appoints general superintendents to serve as advisers to institutions of higher education affiliated with the International Board of Education. (Paragraph 317.8) They arrange ministerial studies for those serving in roles of ministry, lay or credentialed. (Paragraph 317.9) 7. Crisis Management The BGS may declare a Phase 3 district in crisis, ensuring proper measures are taken to address challenges. (Paragraph 322) They also have the authority to declare vacant the office of a district superintendent under specific circumstances. (Paragraph 321) 8. Global Leadership The BGS provides supervision, guidance, and motivation for the general church, focusing on leadership and theology for all districts, agencies, and ministries worldwide. (Paragraph 317.1) They recommend changes in geographical assignments to enhance the church’s global mission strategy. (Paragraph 317.2) 9. Ecclesiastical Authority The BGS holds primary authority on ecclesiastical policies and advises the General Board and its committees on various matters. (Paragraph 317.3) They interpret the law and doctrine of the Church of the Nazarene, ensuring consistency and clarity. (Paragraph 318) 10. Promoting Unity and Mission Through their leadership, the BGS ensures that the church remains united, focused, and impactful in its mission to make Christlike disciples in the nations. They oversee the release of the revised Church Manual, ensuring it is effective in all appropriate languages. (Paragraph 323) The Board of General Superintendents is an essential pillar of leadership within the Church of the Nazarene, ensuring that the church stays focused on its mission, united in its operations, and consistent in its teachings. Through their global oversight, missionary guidance, and governance, they help the church grow stronger and remain impactful worldwide.

The Supreme Gathering of the Church of the Nazarene I remember attending a district assembly some years ago, thinking I had just experienced the highest decision-making body of the Church. I was confident—until a dear friend leaned over and said, “Kelvin, you went to the district assembly… not the General Assembly.” That moment sparked my curiosity. Are these two different? What is the General Assembly really? Why should we care? This question might pop up from both Nazarenes and non-Nazarenes alike. So, we did some digging and found the most authoritative answer from the Church of the Nazarene Manual, particularly Paragraph 300–303. Here’s what we can learn together: Definition and Function of the General Assembly (Paragraph 300) It is the supreme authority in the Church of the Nazarene when it comes to: Doctrine Lawmaking Electing church leadership It operates under the Church Constitution and presided over by the General Superintendents. The General Assembly also: Elects officers Organizes itself for business Follows Robert’s Rules of Order for proper meeting conduct Membership of the General Assembly (Paragraph 301) Members include: Ordained ministers and lay delegates (equal numbers) District superintendents General superintendents (current and emeriti) Presidents and leaders of global ministries (NMI, NYI) General Board members Selected international education leaders Missionary delegates from each region District Representation by Membership Size: 0–6,000 members: 2 lay, 2 ministerial delegates 6,001–10,000: 3 lay, 3 ministerial Increases by 1 lay + 1 ministerial for every 5,000 members Other Notes: Phase 2 districts: 1 lay + 1 ordained minister (district superintendent) Phase 1 districts: 1 non-voting delegate (district superintendent) Delegates can lose eligibility if they change districts, assignments, or retire before the General Assembly. When and Where? (Paragraph 302) Held every four years Time and place chosen by the General Assembly Commission In emergencies, time/location may change May include simultaneous sites with official voting recognized across locations Begins with devotionals, followed by business sessions Special Sessions (Paragraph 303) A special General Assembly may be called in emergencies if: Approved by the Board of General Superintendents Written consent from two-thirds of all district superintendents Why It Matters The General Assembly is more than a business meeting. It’s a spiritual, legislative, and inspirational event that shapes the global Church of the Nazarene. It’s where vision meets structure, and unity meets diversity. So next time someone says, “I’m going to the General Assembly,” don’t confuse it with the district one—it’s the big stage! Have you ever attended a General Assembly? Let us know in the comments. And don’t forget to follow us for more simplified yet deep insights from the Nazarene world.

I remember sitting in my first district assembly, overwhelmed by the sense of purpose but unsure where our small group fit into the global picture of the Church of the Nazarene. It wasn’t until I learned about the three developmental phases that I understood our place—and our potential. Every district, no matter how small or large, begins a journey of faith, growth, and structure. Here’s a closer look at how the Church guides that journey through its classification of districts into three distinct phases. Not all districts in the Church of the Nazarene are on the same level of growth. To guide their development, the Church classifies them into three main stages. These stages are: Phase 1 (Pioneer District) Phase 2 (Developing District) Phase 3 (Organized District) Each stage has unique characteristics, leadership structures, and expectations. PHASE 1 – THE PIONEER STAGE Starting from the ground up Districts at this level are in the early stages of planting churches. There are few churches and limited structure. Leadership is appointed, not elected. The district is under the guidance of the regional director and Global Missions. There is a strong vision and faith to grow, but resources are still limited. PHASE 2 – THE DEVELOPING STAGE Progressing toward self-sufficiency To be classified as Phase 2, a district must meet the following: At least 10 organized churches Minimum of 500 full members At least 5 ordained elders Must fund 50% of its administrative costs Additional Notes: Leadership is partly elected and partly appointed. If the district fails to meet the requirements, it may return to Phase 1 temporarily. PHASE 3 – THE ORGANIZED STAGE Fully established and self-sustaining This is the highest level of district development. Requirements include: At least 20 organized churches Minimum of 1,000 full members At least 10 ordained elders 100% of administrative costs are covered by the district itself Extra Points: Leadership is fully elected by the district assembly. Phase 3 districts may merge with other Phase 3 districts when appropriate. These districts are viewed as strong partners in global mission work. Manual Reference: Church of the Nazarene, 2023–2027 Manual, Paragraph 200 Understanding these phases helps us recognize where our district stands and what is needed for it to grow. Whether in Phase 1, 2, or 3, every district is vital to the mission of the Church of the Nazarene. Reflecting on these phases, I’m reminded that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Whether our district is planting its first church or celebrating full self-sufficiency, we are part of a bigger story—a global mission that values every step forward. Knowing where we are helps us pray more intentionally lead more wisely, and dream more boldly for the future of our district and the Church of the Nazarene as a whole.

The Church of the Nazarene, with its heart for missions and passion for making Christ-like disciples has been actively spreading the gospel worldwide for over a century. Inspired by Isaiah 6:8 “Here am I. Send me!” the Church has faithfully followed Christ’s call to bring hope and transformation through the love of Jesus to all corners of the world. The Church’s Presence Across World Areas Below is a list of world areas where the Church of the Nazarene is active, including the year of establishment and the number of years they have been there: 1: Albania (Eurasia) – 1993 – 32 years 2: American Samoa (Asia-Pacific) – 1958 – 67 years 3: Angola (Africa) – 1992 – 33 years 4: Antigua and Barbuda (Mesoamerica) – 1973 – 52 years 5: Argentina (South America) – 1909 – 116 years 6: Armenia (Eurasia) – 2002 – 23 years 7: Aruba (Mesoamerica) – 2000 – 25 years 8: Australia (Asia-Pacific) – 1946 – 79 years 9: Azores (Eurasia) – 1984 – 41 years 10: Bahamas, The (Mesoamerica) – 1971 – 54 years 11: Bangladesh (Eurasia) – 1992 – 33 years 12: Barbados (Mesoamerica) – 1926 – 99 years 13: Belgium (Eurasia) – 2024 – 1 year 14: Belize (Mesoamerica) – 1934 – 91 years 15: Benin (Africa) – 1998 – 27 years 16: Bermuda (USA/Canada) – 1970 – 55 years 17: Bolivia (South America) – 1945 – 80 years 18: Botswana (Africa) – 1984 – 41 years 19: Brazil (South America) – 1958 – 67 years 20: Bulgaria (Eurasia) – 1994 – 31 years 21: Burkina Faso (Africa) – 1997 – 28 years 22: Burundi (Africa) – 1999 – 26 years 23: Cabo Verde (Africa) – 1901 – 124 years 24: Cambodia (Asia-Pacific) – 1992 – 33 years 25: Cameroon (Africa) – 1999 – 26 years 26: Canada (USA/Canada) – 1902 – 123 years 27: Central African Republic (Africa) – 2020 – 5 years 28: Chile (South America) – 1962 – 63 years 29: Chuuk (Asia-Pacific) – 2000 – 25 years 30: Colombia (South America) – 1975 – 50 years 31: Congo, Democratic Republic of the (Africa) – 1990 – 35 years 32: Congo, Republic of the (Africa) – 1997 – 28 years 33: Costa Rica (Mesoamerica) – 1964 – 61 years 34: Côte d’Ivoire (Africa) – 1987 – 38 years 35: Croatia (Eurasia) – 1999 – 26 years 36: Cuba (Mesoamerica) – 1902 – 123 years 37: Curaçao (Mesoamerica) – 2017 – 8 years 38: Cyprus (Eurasia) – 1985 – 40 years 39: Denmark (Eurasia) – 1960 – 65 years 40: Dominica (Mesoamerica) – 1974 – 51 years 41: Dominican Republic (Mesoamerica) – 1974 – 51 years 42: East Timor (Asia-Pacific) – 2001 – 24 years 43: Ecuador (South America) – 1972 – 53 years 44: Egypt (Eurasia) – 1986 – 39 years 45: El Salvador (Mesoamerica) – 1964 – 61 years 46: Equatorial Guinea (Africa) – 2002 – 23 years 47: Eritrea (Africa) – 1993 – 32 years 48: Eswatini (Africa) – 1910 – 115 years 49: Ethiopia (Africa) – 1992 – 33 years 50: Federated States of Micronesia (Asia-Pacific) – 2000 – 25 years 51: Fiji (Asia-Pacific) – 1995 – 30 years 52: France (Eurasia) – 1977 – 48 years 53: French Guiana (Mesoamerica) – 1988 – 37 years 54: Gabon (Africa) – 1999 – 26 years 55: Germany (Eurasia) – 1958 – 67 years 56: Ghana (Africa) – 1990 – 35 years 57: Greece (Eurasia) – 2002 – 23 years 58: Grenada (Mesoamerica) – 1977 – 48 years 59: Guadeloupe (Mesoamerica) – 1986 – 39 years 60: Guam (Asia-Pacific) – 1971 – 54 years 61: Guatemala (Mesoamerica) – 1904 – 121 years 62: Guinea-Bissau (Africa) – 2004 – 21 years 63: Guinea-Conakry (Africa) – 2009 – 16 years 64: Guyana (Mesoamerica) – 1946 – 79 years 65: Haiti (Mesoamerica) – 1950 – 75 years 66: Honduras (Mesoamerica) – 1970 – 55 years 67: Hong Kong (Asia-Pacific) – 1974 – 51 years 68: Hungary (Eurasia) – 1996 – 29 years 69: India (Eurasia) – 1898 – 127 years 70: Indonesia (Asia-Pacific) – 1973 – 52 years 71: Ireland (Eurasia) – 1987 – 38 years 72: Israel (Eurasia) – 1921 – 104 years 73: Italy (Eurasia) – 1948 – 77 years 74: Jamaica (Mesoamerica) – 1966 – 59 years 75: Japan (Asia-Pacific) – 1905 – 120 years 76: Jordan (Eurasia) – 1950 – 75 years 77: Kazakhstan (Eurasia) – 1996 – 29 years 78: Kenya (Africa) – 1984 – 41 years 79: Korea, South (Asia-Pacific) – 1948 – 77 years 80: Kosovo (Eurasia) – 2005 – 20 years 81: Latvia (Eurasia) – 2019 – 6 years 82: Lebanon (Eurasia) – 1950 – 75 years 83: Lesotho (Africa) – 1993 – 32 years 84: Liberia (Africa) – 1990 – 35 years 85: Luxembourg (Eurasia) – 2021 – 4 years 86: Macedonia (Eurasia) – 2000 – 25 years 87: Madagascar (Africa) – 1993 – 32 years 88: Madeira Islands (Eurasia) – 2002 – 23 years 89: Malawi (Africa) – 1957 – 68 years 90: Mali (Africa) – 2010 – 15 years 91: Martinique (Mesoamerica) – 1976 – 49 years 92: Mauritius (Africa) – 2016 – 9 years 93: Mexico (Mesoamerica) – 1903 – 122 years 94: Moldova (Eurasia) – 2009 – 16 years 95: Mongolia (Asia-Pacific) – 2017 – 8 years 96: Mozambique (Africa) – 1922 – 103 years 97: Myanmar (Asia-Pacific) – 1984 – 41 years 98: Namibia (Africa) – 1973 – 52 years 99: Nepal (Eurasia) – 1998 – 27 years 100: Netherlands (Eurasia) – 1967 – 58 years 101: New Zealand (Asia-Pacific) – 1952 – 73 years 102: Nicaragua (Mesoamerica) – 1937 – 88 years 103: Niger (Africa) – 2009 – 16 years 104: Nigeria (Africa) – 1977 – 48 years 105: Norway (Eurasia) – 2009 – 16 years 106: Palau (Asia-Pacific) – 1995 – 30 years 107: Panama (Mesoamerica) – 1953 – 72 years 108: Papua New Guinea (Asia-Pacific) – 1955 – 70 years 109: Paraguay (South America)

WHO ARE GENERAL SUPERINTENDENTS? Well, I came across a question in a Nazarene Facebook Group that attracted attention and meaningful engagement. The question was simple but deep: Who are General Superintendents? The answers came in from all over the world The US, Mexico, Australia, Ghana and beyond. It was clear that many people cared about the structure and leadership of the Church of the Nazarene and i thought it would be helpful to add my voice to the conversation based on what i found out. From the comments, I gathered that General Superintendents are spiritual leaders tasked with guiding the global church, maintaining doctrinal unity and making key leadership decisions. Some Group members pointed out their role in ordination and ensuring the church remains focused on its mission. But perhaps the most official and detailed description can be found in the Church of the Nazarene Manual. The Church of the Nazarene Manual defines General Superintendents as the highest elected leaders responsible for the oversight and spiritual guidance of the global church. They serve as guardians of doctrine, unity, and mission within the denomination. Duties of a General Superintendent According to the Church Manual, General Superintendents are responsible fo providing spiritual guidance and ensure the church remains faithful to its mission. According to the Church of the Nazarene Manual: “The role of the general superintendents is to provide apostolic and visionary spiritual leadership by: articulating mission, casting vision, ordaining members of the clergy, propagating theological coherency, and providing jurisdictional and general administrative oversight for the general church.” (Manual, 306) This means that they do more than just oversee administrative tasks—they help shape the spiritual direction of the church. They ensure the church stays united in its beliefs and that leaders are properly ordained to serve. General Supervision: “Have general supervision of the Church of the Nazarene, subject to law and order as adopted by the General Assembly.” (Manual, 307.1) They oversee the entire church but must follow the church’s established rules and guidelines. Presiding Over Assemblies: “Preside over the General Assembly and over the meetings of the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene.” (Manual, 307.3) They lead major church meetings and ensure smooth decision-making at the highest level. Ordination of Clergy: “Have discretionary power to ordain, or appoint others to ordain, those who have been properly elected to be elders or deacons.” (Manual, 307.4) They have the authority to officially ordain clergy members, confirming them for service. Appointing Pastors and Superintendents: “The general superintendent presiding over a district assembly, the district superintendent, and District Advisory Board, in concurrence with delegates of local churches, shall appoint pastors of local churches that have not called pastors.” (Manual, 307.6) If a church does not have a pastor, the General Superintendent helps appoint one. “The general superintendents may appoint district superintendents over assembly districts where vacancies occur in the interim of district assembly sessions, upon consultation with the District Advisory Committee.” (Manual, 307.7) They also appoint district leaders when there is a leadership gap. Ensuring Doctrinal and Legal Integrity: “The Board of General Superintendents shall be the authority for interpretation of law and doctrine of the Church of the Nazarene, and meaning and force of provisions of the Manual, subject to an appeal to the General Assembly.” (Manual, 318) They have the final say in interpreting church doctrine, ensuring the church remains faithful to its beliefs. Decision-Making in Church Leadership: “The office of any general superintendent may be declared vacant, for cause, by the unanimous vote of the remaining members of the Board of General Superintendents, supported by a two-thirds vote of the General Board.” (Manual, 307.15) If a General Superintendent fails in their role, the other leaders can vote to remove them. The Board of General Superintendents The General Superintendents work together as a board, sharing responsibilities: “The general superintendents shall organize as a board and arrange for and assign to the members work over which they shall have special jurisdiction.” (Manual, 315) This ensures that leadership is shared and responsibilities are distributed among the superintendents.. Filling Vacancies: “If a vacancy occurs in the Board of General Superintendents, in the interim of sessions of the General Assembly, the question of calling for an election to fill the vacancy shall be decided by the Board of General Superintendents.” (Manual, 316) If one of them steps down, the others decide whether a new election should be held. Supervising the Global Church: “Provide supervision, guidance, and motivation for the general church, with appropriate attention to leadership and theology for all districts, agencies, and ministries of the global Church of the Nazarene.” (Manual, 317.1) They ensure that churches around the world stay true to the church’s mission and teachings. Missionary and Financial Oversight: “Plan, preserve and promote the World Evangelism Fund which is the lifeline of global mission interests.” (Manual, 317.10) They manage the funds that support mission work worldwide. The General Superintendents are responsible for leading the Church of the Nazarene spiritually and administratively. Their duties range from ordaining pastors to ensuring that church teachings remain consistent. As a board, they oversee the church’s global mission, make key leadership appointments, and provide theological direction. By understanding their role, we can appreciate how they help keep the Church of the Nazarene united and mission-focused.